In a notable move, the Senate’s version of the fiscal year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) includes a proposed $500 million in extended military support for Ukraine—just days after the Department of Defense hit pause on arms shipments to the war-torn nation.
Approved by the Senate Armed Services Committee with a strong 26-1 vote, the bill seeks to replenish the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative. That fund had been depleted earlier this year under the Biden administration. Unlike direct transfers from U.S. military inventories, this initiative involves contracting defense companies to produce and deliver weapons to Ukraine over time.
“This isn’t nearly enough to meet Ukraine’s full needs,” said a congressional staffer, who asked to remain unnamed during a bill briefing. “But it’s a symbolic and strategic gesture that the U.S. still stands with Ukraine.”
The bill also aims to extend the Ukraine aid program through 2028. Meanwhile, the House Armed Services Committee has proposed a similar measure, albeit with a smaller $300 million budget for the same initiative.
Interestingly, the Pentagon did not ask for any funds for this program in its late-June budget proposal. A review reportedly found it misaligned with the administration’s current strategic priorities.
The proposal comes on the heels of a temporary halt in U.S. arms deliveries to Ukraine—reportedly due to growing concern over the nation’s own defense reserves. Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell emphasized during a July 2 press briefing, “We have to prioritize America’s security. We simply can’t arm the globe without consequence.”
While the Pentagon and White House later walked back the notion of a formal pause, President Donald Trump responded swiftly, confirming that additional defensive equipment would still be sent to Kyiv.
“At President Trump’s direction, the Department of Defense is deploying more defensive aid to Ukraine, ensuring they can protect themselves as we pursue a lasting peace and bring an end to the violence,” Parnell later stated.
